7 Points St Louis Mortgage Customers Must Know To Stop Credit And Debit Card Theft 


St Louis mortgage consumers are constantly bombarded with safety tips on how to protect the use of our credit cards and now we use debit cards when we make purchases in person, on the phone or the Internet.

However, one may be caught completely off guard to know that identity theft can happen to you even when you still have your credit card or debt card in your possession.

Most users have never heard of the term "skimming." This new wave of crime utilizes modern technological advances where a thief can much more easily get your credit card information.

St Louis finance experts are saying that credit and debt card skimming is now getting to be an epidemic while becoming more newsworthy due to recent skimming incidents such as those at Bank of America.

Retails stores that accept credit and debit cards such as dining establishments, bars, gas stations and ATMs are becoming more susceptible targets for skimming.

All a thief has to do is get hold of your credit or debt card, scan it through a small hand held electronic equipment and in seconds has all your financial information that is kept on your card.

Criminals are also targeting ATMs now. By using cameras or watching you as you key in your 4 digit pin code, these ruthless white collar thieves can now use up your bank.

So, here are 7 tips to help keep your financial information private and safe:

1. Do not forget to always keep your bank or credit card company updated on your personal details as you will need this to dispute deceitful charges.

2. While you are thinking about it, go and write down all customer service phone numbers found on the back of your cards and keep this list in a protected place. Oh, and look at your monthly bank statement very carefully.

3. If an ATM is in bad shape or run down, walk, better yet run away! A look of a dirty machine may signify that it is not working or may be a criminal clone trying to steal your information.

4. Another tip that most consumers forget about is notifying your credit card company when you go on vacation and the destination of your trips. They can decline any suspicious charges much faster when they have this information.

5. If you notice that the front of an ATM machine appears damaged or loose, this may be a sign that someone has attached a skimming machine.

6. If there are suspicious individuals casing the ATM, they probably want your cash or are wanting to watch you type your PIN number. If you at any time lose your card in a machine, just leave. It may be best to politely turn down assistance from someone who may have been observing you. You can always call your bank and get a new card.

7. Cover the pin pad using your other hand when putting in your PIN number.

Another good piece of advice that was mentioned above is to check your balance on a frequent basis when your statement arrives.

For those who use their debit cards more often should also know that the laws protecting credit card holders do not involve debit card purchases. So, you are more protected using a credit card.

St Louis finance analysts recommend always notify your bank or credit card company within two days of losing your cards. This may help limit your losses to $50. The worst thing you can do is postpone this needed phone call. You may end up suffering greater financial losses by waiting.

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